How Many Litters Can a Dog Have in a Lifetime?
Last Updated Apr 1, 2020 7:40:28 PM ET
Dogs are capable of giving birth up until their death because, unlike humans, dogs do not experience menopause in old age. Different breeds have different life spans, so the number of litters possible over a lifetime depends in part on the type of dog.
Female dogs go into heat every six months from the onset of their first heat. The gestation period is approximately 63 days, with an additional six weeks of nursing the puppies. Theoretically, a dog can give birth three times per year over its lifetime, but this puts tremendous strain on its body. Professional breeders generally breed their dogs twice in the animal's lifetime between the ages of 6 and 8 years.
More From Reference
Will 5G Impact Our Cell Phone Plans (or Our Health?!)
The Secret Science of Solving Crossword Puzzles
Racist Phrases to Remove From Your Mental Lexicon
Is the Coronavirus Crisis Increasing America's Drug Overdoses?
Fact Check: What Power Does the President Really Have Over State Governors?
Festival of Sacrifice: The Past and Present of the Islamic Holiday of Eid al-Adha